A new spot for traditional Japanese noodle soup is coming to Wellesley.
On Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025, the Select Board approved a Common Victualler and All Alcohol License request for Charm Ramen & Rice, according to The Swellesley Report.
The authentic ramen eatery will take over the former Lemon Thai space at 555 Washington St. Lemon Thai, which had been a staple in the community for 21 years, closed at the start of the year.
Charm manager and co-owner Sumontha Trahan, a West Roxbury resident, will run the restaurant alongside Kanokwan Maillis, Pattaraporn Hermida, and Sompong Makjalern. At the Select Board meeting, Trahan emphasized the team’s dedication to crafting traditional ramen.
“We are talking about real ramen, not the ramen where the college kids don’t have money and go get a package or a cup,” she said. “Our ramen is not like that. It’s the real one. It’s a craft; it’s an art.”
The restaurant’s approach to ramen will be meticulous, with each ingredient carefully selected, measured, and timed for optimal flavor.
Inclusivity is also a priority. One of the owners is vegetarian, and others have dietary restrictions, so the menu will feature a range of options including fish-based, dairy-free, vegetarian, and tofu dishes.
The owners of Charm Ramen & Rice could not be reached for comment, and an opening date has not yet been announced.
“We are very proud of what we are going to bring to the town,” Trahan said at the Select Board meeting.
